Creamy Tomato Gnocchi

Name: Creamy Tomato Gnocchi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb gnocchi; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup mascarpone cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil, for garnish; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Favorites

When I first made Creamy Tomato Gnocchi, I didn’t expect such an explosion of flavor in each bite. The rich, creamy tomato sauce envelops the pillowy gnocchi in the most delightful way, making it an instant favorite in our household. Preparing this dish felt like a culinary hug, with flavors mingling together effortlessly. Each time I serve it, I’m reminded of spontaneous dinner parties where everyone leaves with happy hearts and satisfied bellies. This recipe isn’t just about nourishment; it’s also about creating memorable moments at the dining table.

Created by

Isobel Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:12:37.424Z

Reflecting back on the first time I made this Creamy Tomato Gnocchi, I remember how the kitchen filled with an enchanting aroma that set the stage for what was to come. The secret to the creamy sauce lies in the addition of mascarpone cheese, which elevates the dish to new heights of indulgence. I also like to add a dash of red pepper flakes for a subtle warmth that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the tomatoes.

One of the joys of this recipe is its surprising simplicity. While it feels gourmet, all it takes is 20 minutes of cooking time once the gnocchi is cooking. I’ve experimented with different herbs and toppings, but I always come back to fresh basil and a sprinkle of parmesan for the finishing touch. It’s a cozy dish that never fails to impress!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy tomato sauce that is perfectly balanced with a hint of spice
Quick and easy preparation, ideal for busy weeknights
Pillowy gnocchi that pairs wonderfully with fresh herbs

Cooking the Gnocchi Perfectly

Cooking gnocchi might seem straightforward, but timing is crucial to prevent a mushy texture. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding the gnocchi. A useful trick is to wait for them to float to the top, which usually signifies they are ready. This typically takes about 2-4 minutes. If you're using frozen gnocchi, they may take a minute or two longer—just be patient and keep an eye on them.

After draining, I recommend spreading the gnocchi onto a baking sheet in a single layer to prevent sticking while you finish preparing the sauce. If you don’t want to serve them immediately, you can rinse them briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process, then toss them in a little olive oil before storing them in the fridge for later use.

Crafting the Sauce

The sauce is the heart of this Creamy Tomato Gnocchi. Using fresh cherry tomatoes enhances the dish's overall flavor profile, with their sweetness balancing beautifully against the creaminess of mascarpone and heavy cream. Make sure the oil is hot enough to sizzle when you add the garlic; this releases its essential oils and prevents the garlic from becoming too bitter. Sautéing until fragrant is key, and about a minute is usually perfect.

When adding the tomatoes, look for them to soften and start releasing their juices—this usually takes about 5 minutes. If they’re not breaking down well, increase the heat slightly. If you like a depth of flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine after the tomatoes have softened to add complexity to your sauce.

Serving Suggestions

For a vibrant presentation, garnish your Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with freshly torn basil leaves. This not only adds a burst of color but also brightens the dish with herbal freshness. Pair each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which melts slightly over the hot gnocchi, creating an indulgent finish. If you're looking for extra texture, consider adding toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving.

If you're meal prepping or planning a dinner party, consider making the sauce ahead of time. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it over medium heat, adding a splash of cream if it thickens too much, and then add the gnocchi just before serving for the best texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Creamy Tomato Gnocchi:

Ingredients

1 lb gnocchi
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup mascarpone cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Make sure all the ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Creamy Tomato Gnocchi:

Cook the Gnocchi

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Once they float to the top, they're done. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add the Tomatoes

Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they soften, about 5 minutes.

Make it Creamy

Stir in the heavy cream and mascarpone cheese. Cook until the sauce is heated through and well combined. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

Combine

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the gnocchi in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is warmed through.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your delicious, creamy gnocchi!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding sautéed spinach or kale to the dish. Adjust the creaminess by adding more or less mascarpone to suit your taste.

Key Ingredient Insights

Mascarpone cheese is a star player in this recipe. Unlike traditional cream, its thick and creamy texture contributes to the richness of the sauce while adding a slightly sweet flavor. If you don't have mascarpone, you can substitute it with cream cheese, beating it until smooth, or even a blend of sour cream and heavy cream to achieve a similar consistency.

Cherry tomatoes bring not only sweetness but also acidity to the sauce. I recommend avoiding larger tomato varieties, as they often have more water and can dilute the sauce's flavor. If cherry tomatoes are out of season, substitute with canned diced tomatoes—just simmer them a bit longer to concentrate their flavors.

Scaling and Variations

This creamy tomato sauce pairs well with various pasta shapes, not just gnocchi. If you want to scale up the recipe for a larger gathering, simply multiply the ingredients accordingly. Keep in mind that larger quantities may require slightly longer cooking times, especially when sautéing garlic and tomatoes, so watch for visual cues.

For a twist, consider adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even cooked sausage to the dish. These additions will enhance the nutritional aspect while giving the dish added flavor complexity. If you're looking to lighten it up a bit, try substituting half of the cream with low-fat Greek yogurt for a tangy bite.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, Creamy Tomato Gnocchi can be refrigerated for up to three days in an airtight container. Just be aware that the gnocchi may take on some of the sauce's moisture but will still taste delicious when reheated. I recommend adding a splash of cream when reheating to restore its creamy texture.

To reheat, use low to medium heat in a skillet over the stovetop, stirring constantly to heat evenly. Microwaving is also an option; just make sure to cover the bowl to prevent drying out, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Enjoy your meal in the comfort of a cozy bowl, just like the first time!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi is convenient and pairs well with this sauce.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegetarian. Just make sure to use vegetable stock if you add any broth.